Develop a working methodology which works for you (and remember that new != better): http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/5S_%28methodology%29#Seiri http://en.wikipedia

Develop a working methodology which works for you (and remember that new != better): http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/5S_%28methodology%29#Seiri http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/5S_%28methodology%29#Seiri Having your tools where you expect them to be and mastering them (shortcuts, how to save keystrokes, how to type efficiently, how to perform daily/repetitive tasks with low friction) is key factor. Personally this is the reason why I use VIM over some modern IDE, i value more being fast and keep improving over the years than having the latest feature which is likely going to slow you down due to lack of consistency. The beginner's mind - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shoshin http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shoshin Avoid at all costs to close yourself inside your craft and job. Avoid strong opinions and realize that you will never know enough, you'll likely keep learning from others and improve, this is why you should keep over the years the beginner's mind. Be a Tenzo. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tenzo http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tenzo Understand that you have responsibilities and that you must work hard, both for you and for the others. In short, i think these are the requirements to be a good programmer (as well as a good professional in general).